External fixator system

Abstract

Disclosed herein are external fixation frames for correcting bone deformities. The external fixation frames include a top fixation ring and a bottom fixation ring coupled to one another by at least two struts. A half ring is coupled to bottom fixation ring. The bottom fixation ring is u-shaped. One or more rocker members may be coupled to the bottom fixation ring. The half ring may be hingedly coupled to the bottom fixation ring such that it can rotate with respect to the bottom fixation ring from a first position to a second position.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application is continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 108,787, filed Aug. 22, 2018, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 10,080,585, filed Jun. 28, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 9,839,445, filed Apr. 12, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 9,730,730, filed May 8, 2015, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 9,220,533, filed Dec. 9, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. Pat. No. 8,945,128, filed Mar. 11, 2013, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Pat. No. 8,834,467, filed Aug. 9, 2011, which claims priority to European Application No. 10 172 523.2, filed Aug. 11, 2010, and European Application No. 11 176 512.9, filed Aug. 4, 2011. The disclosures of each of the above-referenced applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present disclosure relates to an external fixation frame for correcting a bone deformity. More particularly, the pr...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes an external fixation frame for correcting bone deformities. The frame includes a first and second fixation ring, as well as struts and a half ring that connect the rings. The struts have hinge joints and can adjust their length. The half ring can be coupled to a bone fastener or a rocker member. The frame can be used to correct various bone deformities, such as scoliosis or fractures. The technical effects of the frame include improved bone correction and stability, as well as reduced complications and recovery time.

Problems solved by technology

As the position adjustments of the components are made where the nuts are secured, it can be difficult for the patient, for example, to make the required daily adjustments with consideration of maintaining stable fixation.

The devices generally offer limited access for the patient.

For example, existing foot fixation products on the market are static and do not allow for adjustment and pivoting.

This lack of flexibility and motion restricts the motion of the foot and ankle and the external fixation frame during deformity correction, making the process more difficult for the physician and the patient and potentially preventing an optimal clinical outcome.

Images